How to Get an Online DNA Test for Free

Everyone loves to find free stuff online. Many people who are interested in learning more about their genetics try to find the best deal possible, which often means looking for a free DNA test.

We are going to help you understand how this works and give you the facts.

The Truth About Free Online DNA Tests

Let's put it plainly: you will not find a truly free online DNA test from a reputable DNA company. DNA testing costs money. It does not cost as much as you might expect, especially compared to what you might pay for some specialty kits, but there is always a cost involved.

If someone is offering you a completely free DNA test, that is a red flag. As covered in our guide to avoiding genetic testing scams, free DNA test offers are often used to commit identity theft or Medicare fraud.

The Misunderstanding of DNA Tests vs. Analysis

Many people confuse taking a DNA test with analyzing DNA data. A DNA test is simply the process of extracting raw data from your DNA. That raw data does not make much sense to someone who has not studied genomics.

Raw data from DNA is analyzed in many different ways, and the results are what make sense to people. For instance, when DNA raw data is analyzed for ancestry, the information tells people where their ancestors originated. A health analysis will report possible inherited conditions so people can work with a healthcare professional to prevent or monitor them.

How to Get Free DNA Analysis

Here is where things get genuinely interesting. While DNA tests themselves are not free, DNA analysis can be. This is where Sequencing stands apart.

If you have already taken a DNA test with 23andMe, AncestryDNA, MyHeritage, or another company, you can upload your raw DNA data to Sequencing completely free of charge. Once your data is uploaded, you gain access to Genome Explorer and a range of free DNA analysis apps through the Partner Marketplace.

The Partner Marketplace contains both free and paid apps and reports. The free analysis apps are genuinely useful and provide meaningful insights into your health, ancestry, and genetic traits. When you are ready to explore further, paid apps offer deeper analysis across health, nutrition, pharmacogenomics, and more.

What You Get With Free DNA Analysis at Sequencing

After uploading your raw DNA data for free, you can immediately start using the Genome Explorer app to explore your genetic variants. You can also access a growing range of free reports covering ancestry, health predispositions, and genetic traits.

For the most comprehensive analysis, Sequencing's whole genome sequencing reads 100% of your DNA across over 30,000 genes. This is significantly more comprehensive than the genotyping tests offered by most consumer DNA companies, which analyze less than 0.1% of the genome. Whole genome sequencing is available from $399.

Get Started Today

Now you know the truth about how to get an online DNA test for free. The test itself is not free, but if you already have DNA data from another provider, you can upload it to Sequencing for free and start exploring your genetic story right away.

Upload your existing DNA data for free or order your whole genome sequencing kit from Sequencing to get the most comprehensive genetic picture available.

Additional Information

If you are researching DNA testing and want to learn more before purchasing, you may find these Education Center articles helpful: