Abstract: Provided are methods of amplifying nucleic acids. The methods include combining a nucleic acid sample, a known amount of one or more competitive internal standard nucleic acids, and one or more amplification primers adapted to amplify one or more nucleic acids of interest present in the nucleic acid sample and the one or more competitive internal standard nucleic acids. The nucleic acid sample, competitive internal standard nucleic acids, and amplification primers are combined in a reaction mixture under conditions sufficient to amplify the one or more nucleic acids of interest and the one or more competitive internal standard nucleic acids. Aspects of the present disclosure further include compositions and kits that find use in practicing embodiments of the methods.