Genealogy DNA Test

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WHAT IS A GENEOLOGY TEST?

A genealogy test is a type of DNA test used to trace a person’s ancestry and family history. It analyzes your genetic material (usually from a saliva or cheek swab sample) to provide insights into your ethnic background, potential relatives, and ancestral origins.

There are three main types of genealogy DNA tests:

  1. Autosomal DNA Tests – The most common test, analyzing DNA from both parents to provide a broad picture of your ancestry (typically going back about 5-7 generations).
  2. Y-DNA Tests – Used to trace direct paternal lineage, passed down from father to son (only males can take this test).
  3. mtDNA (Mitochondrial DNA) Tests – Traces direct maternal ancestry, passed from mother to child (both males and females can take this test).

Genealogy tests are popular for discovering ethnic origins, connecting with distant relatives, and even learning about ancient migration patterns.

Why Should You Consider a DNA Genealogy Test?

It’s human nature to want to better understand ourselves by connecting with our past. A report from a DNA test will give you a clearer picture of who you are, by pinpointing your ethnic and geographical origins, sometimes right down to the county level.

 

HOW DOES A GENEOLOGY TEST WORK?

A genealogy test, also known as an ancestry DNA test, works by analyzing a person’s DNA to trace their ancestry and family history. Here’s how it typically works:

  1. Collecting the DNA Sample
  • The test usually requires a saliva sample (spit) or a cheek swab.
  • The sample is sent to a laboratory in a prepaid mailer.
  1. DNA Extraction & Analysis
  • The lab extracts DNA from the sample and examines specific regions of the genome.
  • These regions contain genetic markers that provide insights into ancestry, ethnicity, and familial relationships.
  1. Comparing DNA to Databases
  • The DNA is compared to large genetic databases containing DNA profiles from different populations worldwide.
  • By matching genetic markers to known populations, the test estimates ethnic percentages (e.g., 40% European, 30% African, 20% Indigenous American).
  1. Identifying Relatives
  • If you opt in, your DNA may be compared with other people in the database to find genetic relatives.
  • The test can identify close relatives (siblings, parents, cousins) and more distant relatives.
  1. Haplogroup & Migration Tracking (Optional)
  • Some tests analyze maternal (mitochondrial) DNA and/or paternal (Y-DNA, for males only) to trace deep ancestral origins and migration patterns.
  1. Results & Interpretation
  • Results are usually available online within a few weeks.
  • They often include interactive maps, family matches, and sometimes even health-related traits (if the test includes health screening).


How long does it take to get results of a genealogy test?

The time it takes to get genealogy results depends on the service you use and the type of test or research being conducted. Here’s a general timeline:

  • Usually 3 to 8 weeks after the lab receives your sample.
  • Traditional Genealogy Research: Varies widely based on complexity—could take weeks to months if researching on your own or hiring a professional.
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  • Government Records Requests: Getting birth, marriage, or immigration records can take a few weeks to several months, depending on the agency.

How much does it cost for a genealogy test?

The cost of a genealogy (ancestry) DNA test depends on the company and the type of test you choose. Here’s a general price range:

  • Ancestry DNA Tests  generally around  $199

  • Y-DNA and mt DNA Tests (For deep paternal or maternal lineage)
    • Around $249\
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  • Whole Genome Sequencing (Comprehensive analysis)
    • Between $300 and $999

How do I find out my nationality?

There isn’t a specific test that determines nationality, as nationality is a legal status granted by a country based on factors like birth, descent, or naturalization. However, if you’re looking for information related to your ethnic background or ancestry, you could take a DNA test


How many types of genealogy tests are there?

There are three types of genealogy tests,

The three most common ancestry DNA tests are autosomal, mtDNA, and Y-DNA.

Lets discuss each

1)Autosomal DNA

The most common ancestry DNA test analyzes autosomes, which are the chromosomes that you inherit from both of your parents. This makes it ideal for discovering your heritage and ancestors going back as far as ten generations ago. This type of DNA analysis is usually very accurate

 

2)mtDNA

Mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) is the kind that’s passed down exclusively from your mother. Analyzing mtDNA will reveal the migration patterns and ancestry of your maternal line

3)Y-DNA

Y-DNA is inherited from father to son from the Y-chromosome, meaning it’s not a suitable ancestry test for women. Through Y-DNA testing you’ll discover the migration pattern of your paternal line, all the way back to Africa tens of thousand years ago

 

HOW DOES THE FASTDNA GENEOLOGY TEST WORK?

We Pinpoint your DNA!

Your GPS Origins kit contains easy-to-follow instructions, cheek swabs for collecting your DNA samples, and a postage-paid envelope for returning your samples to our lab (U.S. customers only). Using a DNA sample you provide through a simple cheek swab, our qualified laboratory tests more than 80,000 unique genetic markers.

 

Cross-checking that information across dozens of gene pools and more than 1,000 reference populations, we use your DNA to create a detailed report about where your family’s DNA originated and how your own unique DNA signature migrated over time. This can help you answer questions about your family’s history, shed light on the origins of certain family traits, and help you better understand who you are.

 

This advanced autosomal test is so targeted, it may even indicate the town or village where groups of your ancestors from different cultures met—building a vibrant picture of the migration journeys that formed your deep genealogical heritage.

  • New ancestral tracking technique pinpoints your genetic genealogy
  • 80,000 autosomal genetic markers tested, 1,000+ reference populations and 41 gene pools analyzed
  • Simple and painless cheek swab to collect your DNA sample
  • Highly-accredited lab with privacy-protected service and expert staff; your DNA is not sent to a third-party lab
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WHAT DOES MY KIT CONSIST OF?

  • Easy-to-follow instructions
  • Cheek swabs for DNA collection
  • Postage-paid envelope for returning samples to the lab (U.S. customers only)
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WHEN DO I GET MY RESULTS BACK?

  • Generally Within 5 to  6 weeks
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