Nicole Anderson was born in Rochester, Indiana. Her mother was born in the Philippines and moved to the United States with her father, a Commander in the United States Navy.[1] In her younger years, she won national gymnastics competitions, but retired due to injuries.[2] Anderson was awarded a scholarship to Georgia's Barbizon modeling school at the age of 15. She then began to study acting and attending auditions.[1] She landed several print ads and television commercials, including Mary Kate & Ashley Online Clothing, Every Girl, Stand Up, and Bratz Pretty 'n' Punk & Treasures.