This study investigated the psychometric properties of an adapted Chinese version of Motivated Strategies for Learning Questionnaire (MSLQ) using exploratory factor analysis and confirmatory factor analysis. Data were collected from 611 college students from two Chinese universities on the scales of Motivation and Learning Strategies. Results suggested that cross-cultural adaptation and modification were necessary when addressing the transferability of self-regulated learning (SRL) models from Western culture to Eastern culture, particularly in the Chinese educational context. The adapted models indicated absence of Intrinsic Goal Orientation, ambiguity of Peer Learning, and split of managing resources of study time and place among Chinese adult learners. Re-specified models were tested and adequate reliability and model fit indices were reported in MSLQ for Chinese adult learners (MSLQ-CAL) with 52 items. These modifications were discussed with theoretical and empirical perspectives related to SRL.