Abstract Background: Gaming disorder (GD), defined in the ICD-11, is characterized by impaired control over gaming, prioritization over other activities, and continuation despite negative consequences, leading to functional impairment. Despite increasing gaming among Ethiopian university students, no culturally adapted Amharic instrument exists to assess GD. Objective: To translate, culturally adapt, and psychometrically validate the Amharic version of the Gaming Disorder Test (GDT) among undergraduate students at the College of Medicine and Health Sciences, Bahir Dar University. Methods: An institution-based cross-sectional study was conducted among 352 undergraduate students. The GDT was translated using a forward–backward approach and pilot-tested. Data were collected via a self-administered electronic questionnaire. Psychometric evaluation included exploratory and confirmatory factor analyses on split samples. Reliability was assessed using Cronbach’s alpha and composite reliability, while validity was evaluated through content validity indices, average variance extracted (AVE), and correlations with related constructs. Results: A total of 352 students participated (mean age 22.7 years; 59.1% female). The Amharic GDT demonstrated a unidimensional structure. Confirmatory factor analysis showed good model fit (CFI = 0.981, TLI = 0.943, SRMR=0.031). The scale had good reliability (α = 0.806; CR = 0.82) and acceptable convergent validity (AVE = 0.532). GDT scores were significantly correlated with internet addiction, depression, anxiety, stress, and gaming duration (r = 0.276–0.407, p < 0.001). Conclusion: This study provides a culturally adapted and psychometrically robust Amharic version of the Gaming Disorder Test for Ethiopian undergraduate students. The instrument demonstrated satisfactory reliability and validity, offering a standardized tool for early identification, screening, and targeted interventions. Its availability may support prevention strategies and contribute to improved mental health outcomes among university students in Ethiopia.