Drew Van Acker was born in Philadelphia, but lived in Medford, New Jersey his entire life. He began acting in high school drama classes, where he also played on his school's soccer and lacrosse teams. His soccer abilities led him to receive a soccer scholarship to Towson University in Maryland. While attending Towson, Drew took a number of theater courses in order to refocus on acting. He then made the decision to move to New York City, followed by a move to Los Angeles.