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Frequently Asked Questions

Discover unmatched accuracy and reliability in DNA testing with our AABB/CLIA/CAP/NYSDOH-accredited laboratories. You've likely landed here seeking the pinnacle of precision—that's exactly what we deliver. Our credentials guarantee adherence to the highest standards, ensuring our results are universally recognized and accepted by all U.S. government agencies and organizations.

We regularly refresh this page with answers to the most frequently asked questions from our valued customers. Can't find what you're looking for? Don’t hesitate to reach out through our contact form below. We’re committed to responding to every inquiry, providing you with the information you need.

  • What is AABB Accreditation?
    AABB (American Association of Blood Banks) proudly sets the benchmark for regulatory excellence in the DNA testing industry. Holding an AABB Accreditation signifies adherence to the highest standards of quality and reliability in DNA Immigration, Paternity, and other relationship testing laboratories. DNA results from AABB-accredited laboratories are the only ones recognized and trusted by leading immigration authorities, including U.S. Embassies and USCIS, for immigration applications, as well as by courts for legal proceedings. Choose AABB Accreditation—the gold standard that opens doors and upholds integrity in DNA testing.
  • What is immigration DNA testing?
    Unlock the certainty of family relationships with DNA testing—a critical tool recommended by U.S. Embassies and the USCIS when documentary evidence falls short. To ensure your DNA test results are accepted without question by authorities, including U.S. Embassies, USCIS, family courts, U.S. Passport agencies, and the U.S. Department of Justice, it is paramount to use an AABB-accredited laboratory. Engaging directly with a certified lab ensures that your results are accurate, legally binding, and secure. Beware of third-party resellers who pose as accredited labs; they merely forward your samples to the lowest bidder, compromising the security and credibility of your test. Choose the path of integrity with a direct, accredited DNA testing lab to have complete confidence in your immigration and legal processes.
  • What is Chain of Custody?
    Chain of Custody ensures a seamless and secure sequence of evidence management, documenting every phase from collection to disposition. In legal DNA testing, this includes meticulous verification of all parties involved, alongside the precise collection and handling of specimens—all thoroughly documented. Additionally, the AABB mandates that every professional engaged in the process, from the specimen collector to the DNA analyst, remains an impartial third party with no stake in the test results. DNA test results obtained through these rigorous chain-of-custody protocols meet the legal admissibility standards required by government bodies, including U.S. Embassies and the USCIS, ensuring their validity and acceptance in legal and immigration contexts.
  • How accurate is DNA testing?
    Discover the gold standard in paternity and family relationship verification with DNA testing, the most precise method available today. Each individual possesses a unique DNA fingerprint—identical twins being the sole exception. Our DNA is a 50/50 blend, inherited equally from our biological parents. DNA testing meticulously identifies the matching profiles between a child and parent to conclusively confirm or refute blood relations. With DNA testing, you can expect nothing less than 100% accuracy. Experience certainty today with the power of DNA.
  • Are buccal swabs as accurate as blood samples?
    DNA remains consistent across nearly all cells in our bodies from conception and does not alter over time. Thus, the nature of the DNA sample does not influence the outcomes of our tests. Our laboratory primarily utilizes buccal swabs and blood specimens as standard samples. Additionally, we accept various non-standard samples, including organ tissue, hair (with roots), cigarette butts, toothbrushes, and other commonly-used personal items.
  • What is DNA testing used for?
    Paternity and other family relationship DNA tests provide legally admissible evidence for a variety of situations, including child support, parental rights, inheritance disputes, social benefits, immigration, and adoption processes. These tests serve as reliable proof of biological relationships when required.
  • How much does a DNA test cost?
    At Universal Genetics, we offer a standard legal paternity DNA test—which can include one child, one alleged father, and an optional mother’s participation—for $395. Our rates are among the most competitive in the industry, reflecting our commitment to affordability without compromising on quality. All our DNA testing services are performed in laboratories accredited by the AABB, ensuring the highest standards of accuracy and reliability. For pricing details on other DNA tests, please contact us at 1-888-DNA-LAB-8 (1-888-362-5228) or explore the services section on our website.
  • How do I get the DNA testing process started?
    Begin your DNA testing journey today by connecting with one of our experts at Universal Genetics. Simply call us at 1-888-DNA-LAB-8 (1-888-362-5228) or reach out via email at info@UniversalGenetics.com. Alternatively, you can use the Contact Form available in the 'Contact Us' section of our website. Once the appropriate DNA test is determined, we will schedule a convenient sample collection appointment for you. Results are typically available within 3 to 5 working days after we receive the DNA specimens from all tested parties.
  • Where do I go to get my DNA specimen collected?
    Our extensive network of DNA collection sites spans nationwide and internationally, ensuring you can easily schedule an appointment close to your home or office. Please contact us at 1-888-DNA-LAB-8 (1-888-362-5228) to locate a convenient collection site near you.
  • Can I take a DNA test before the child is born?
    Paternity testing is available even before a child is born. At Universal Genetics, we provide prenatal DNA paternity testing services for individuals looking to establish paternity during pregnancy. This process involves an OB-GYN who safely collects a specimen from the unborn child at a time that minimizes risk to both the fetus and the mother. The accuracy of these prenatal results is comparable to standard postnatal paternity tests.
  • Can you do the DNA test if we are living in different cities/states/countries?
    Certainly! We offer DNA testing services for individuals residing in various locations. With an extensive network for DNA specimen collection across the U.S. and globally, we facilitate convenient scheduling of appointments at multiple times and locations to suit your needs.
  • How soon can I get my DNA test results?
    Once we receive specimens from all parties involved, our laboratory typically processes your DNA testing results within 3 to 5 working days. For those needing quicker results, we offer an expedited service that delivers outcomes within 24 hours under certain conditions. In the case of Immigration DNA Testing, the most time-consuming step involves coordinating with U.S. Embassies or overseas USCIS field offices to collect DNA specimens from the tested parties.
  • How do I interpret my DNA test results?
    Our paternity testing delivers conclusive results: a 0% probability of paternity confirms that the tested individual is not the biological father, while a probability greater than 99.9% affirms that he is. For further explanation on how to interpret these results, please visit our results interpretation page.
  • Are your results accepted by US Immigration and other government authorities?
    Our laboratories hold AABB, CLIA, CAP, and NYSDOH accreditations, ensuring we adhere to the highest standards in all aspects of our operations. As a result, our findings are universally recognized and accepted by every U.S. government agency and organization.
  • What do we need to guide you?
    Please ensure clarity in your emails. Include the following information: Specify the purpose of the DNA test (e.g., immigration, legal paternity, personal curiosity, prenatal analysis, identification, surrogacy, adoption). Identify the relationships that need testing. For immigration-related tests: - Who is requesting the DNA test? Options include USCIS, US Embassy or Consulate, US Passport Office, or another entity. For legal paternity tests: - Is there a court order in place? Provide the current locations of all participants. If they are in the US, specify the states. If overseas, please mention the country.
  • For immigration cases: is there an official request for the DNA test?
    If you've received a recommendation from a U.S. Embassy, Consulate, or a Request for Evidence (RFE) from USCIS to consider DNA testing, please include this information in your message. Additionally, if your DNA test is related to a USCIS process, it's important to note the deadline in your correspondence.
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