Background: Refractive error is a visual impairment condition arising from the decreased ability of the eyes to focus light rays on the retina. Due to its impact on the learning process and educational capacity, children are a more vulnerable group. Limited evidence on its magnitude and factors on the area; So that this study will offer valuable information for decision-makers, health care planners, and medical practitioners Objective: To assess the prevalence and associated factors of refractive errors among school children in Bahir Dar city, Northwest Ethiopia Method: A cross-sectional study design was carried out among school children in Bahirdar city. A sample size of 486 was obtained using a single population proportion formula, and the study participants were selected with a multi-stage random sampling technique. Questionnaire and physical examination using a 6m Snellen’s E chart, pinhole test, and an autorefractor were used for data collection. Epidata and SPSS were used for data entry and analysis respectively. Bivariate and multivariable logistic regression analyses were done to sort out associated factors; a P-value <0.05 considered for statistical significance and factors were reported using OR with its 95% CI. Results: 477 study participants were included in the study, accounting 1.85% non- response rate, 256(53.7%) were girls and the mean age of respondents was 13.6years ± 3.8SD. Refractive errors were present in 8.2% (95% CI; 5.7%, 10.6%) of children, and myopia was the dominant type of refractive error (54.1%). Female Sex (AOR=2.7, 95% CI; 1.2, 5.8), higher age(AOR =1.3, 95% CI; 1.1, 1.4), early joining to school(AOR=2.8, 95% CI;1.3, 6.3), and closer working distance on near reading(AOR=6.3, 95% CI; 2.9,12.5,) were factors that have a significant association for the presence of refractive error. Conclusions: The burden of refractive errors is high among school children. Myopia was the dominant type. Female sex, higher age, early joining to school, and closer working distance was the potential risk factors. This study signifies that screening at an early age and reducing near-work activities will reduce the impact of refractive errors. Keywords: Refractive error, Ametropia, Refractive disorder