We have all been there. You’re mid-scroll on social media, binge-watching the latest drama on Netflix, or in the middle of a Zoom meeting, and suddenly… your data runs out. Panic sets in. You can’t refresh your feed or stream, or even have enough data to open an app to buy data.

Interestingly, MTN has a way out of this digital nightmare with MTN XtraByte. 

Want extra data without leaving your couch or running around? Curious about who can borrow it, how much is available, and how it all works? Stick around, this article will walk you through everything you need to know about borrowing MTN data.

What is MTN’s XtraByte Service?

Borrow data on MTN

MTN XtraByte is a service that allows you to borrow data instantly when you run out, and pay it back on your next recharge. Think of it as a small data loan that MTN gives you. Designed for those “oops!” moments when you need data immediately but don’t have enough airtime to buy a full bundle.

Who Can Borrow Data on MTN?

Not everyone qualifies for XtraByte. To qualify for XtraByte, you must meet the following:

  • You must be an MTN Prepaid customer (sorry, postpaid fam, this one is not for you).
  • Your number has to be registered and active.
  • You should have been on the network for more than 3 months.
  • You need to have spent at least ₦200 monthly over the past 3 months.
  • Your main account balance has to be low enough (usually between ₦0 and ₦75) when requesting.
  • You must have repaid any previous XtraByte loan or outstanding borrowing.

MTN rewards loyal, active users who recharge regularly. The more consistent you are, the higher your borrowing limit grows.

How to Borrow Data on MTN

MTN gives you multiple ways to borrow data when you run out. Whether you prefer USSD codes, a quick call, or the MyMTN NG App, here’s how it works:

1. Option A: USSD (*303# – Direct Route)

  • Dial *303#.
  • Select XtraByte from the menu.
  • MTN shows you the data bundles you qualify for.
  • Pick your preferred bundle.
  • Confirm the cost (bundle + 15% service fee, VAT included).
  • Data lands instantly, and MTN deducts the total from your next recharge.

2. Option B: USSD (*312# – Data Menu Route)

  • Dial *312#.
  • Select “Borrow Credit/Recharge.”
  • Choose “Borrow Data.”
  • Pick your bundle from the eligible list.
  • Confirm the cost + service fee.
  • Your phone is credited instantly, and repayment happens on your next recharge.

Tip: If *303# doesn’t load for you, try *312# instead. Both codes work for borrowing data, but the menus differ.

3. Option C: IVR (Call 303)

  • Dial 303.
  • Pick your preferred language (English, Igbo, Hausa, or Yoruba).
  • Select XtraByte.
  • The system reads out the bundles you qualify for.
  • Confirm your choice + the service fee.
  • Data is credited instantly, and you’ll get a confirmation SMS.

4. Option D: MyMTN NG App

  • Download the MyMTN NG App.
  • Log in with your registered MTN phone number.
  • On your dashboard, go to Borrow or XtraByte.
  • Pick the data bundle you want.
  • Confirm your request.
  • The borrowed data hits your line immediately.

How Much Data Can You Borrow on MTN?

The amount of data you can borrow isn’t the same for everyone. MTN looks at how often you recharge and how much you spend before deciding your data loan limit. Think of it as a little trust system: the more consistent you are, the bigger your borrowing power.

Here’s what you need to know:

  • Small bundles for quick saves – Sometimes you’ll only see little top-ups like 25MB or 50MB, just enough to check WhatsApp or load a webpage.
  • Medium bundles for regular users – If you’re a regular recharger, MTN could offer you 100MB, 200MB, or 500MB.
  • Big bundles for loyal spenders – If you’re the kind who loads airtime a lot in bigger amounts, MTN could allow you to borrow 1GB or more.

Service Fee Reminder: MTN adds a 15% service fee (with VAT) on whatever bundle you borrow. So if you borrow 100 MB at ₦100, you’ll actually pay ₦115 on your next recharge. Borrow 1GB at ₦350? That adds up to ₦402.50.

Basically, the more you recharge and stay active, the more MTN trusts you, and the bigger your data lifeline becomes.

How to Repay Borrowed Data

You don’t need to do anything extra to repay your borrowed data. Repaying borrowed data on MTN is refreshingly stress-free. The moment you buy airtime, MTN automatically takes back the cost of the bundle you borrowed, along with the 15% service fee.

If your recharge covers the full amount, great, the debt is cleared instantly. But if it falls short, MTN deducts whatever you loaded and keeps the remaining balance pending. For example, say you borrowed 200MB at ₦200, which comes to ₦230 with the service fee. If you only recharge ₦100, MTN immediately takes that, leaving you with ₦130 still to pay on your next top-up. Until the full balance is cleared, you won’t be able to borrow again.

Benefits of Borrowing Data

1. Safe and Reliable

One of the best parts about borrowing data with MTN is that you’re dealing directly with your network provider. No shady apps, no middlemen, and no hidden tricks. Everything happens through official MTN codes, IVR, or the MyMTN app. That means your information stays secure, and you can trust that the bundle you see is exactly what you’ll get.

2. Instant Lifeline

Sometimes you just can’t afford to be offline. Maybe you’re trying to confirm a ride, send money, or join a virtual meeting. Borrowing data becomes that lifeline. Even if your balance is zero, MTN gives you just enough breathing room to get things done without the panic.

3. Convenience Anytime, Anywhere

Data doesn’t wait for the “right time” to finish. It could be midnight, during a trip, or while you’re far from a recharge outlet. One interesting thing about XtraByte is that you can borrow data wherever you are, no matter the hour. It saves you from being stranded without internet when you least expect it.

4. Automatic Repayment

There’s no awkward reminder or follow-up required. The moment you recharge, MTN automatically deducts what you owe. It’s simple, so, no need to stress about remembering to pay back.

5. Peace of Mind

Another real benefit is the peace of mind it brings. Knowing that you always have a backup option makes life easier. XtraByte is like a safety net. You may not use it every day, but when you need it, it is a lifesaver that keeps you connected.

Common Issues and Solutions Associated with Borrowing Data on MTN

1. Ineligibility to Borrow Data

Sometimes you dial the code and get a “not eligible” message. This usually happens if your SIM is new (less than 3 months old) or if you have unpaid borrowed airtime/data.

The fix: Keep your line active for at least three months, recharge regularly, and clear any old debts.

2. Borrowed Data Not Showing Up

You’ve confirmed the bundle, but nothing enters. Don’t panic, it’s often just a system delay.

The fix: Restart your phone and wait 10–15 minutes. If the data still doesn’t reflect, contact MTN support by dialing 300 on your MTN line, or through the MyMTN app.

3. Automatic Repayment Didn’t Work

If your borrowed bundle isn’t deducted after recharging, it simply means your airtime wasn’t enough to cover the debt. MTN will keep waiting. The moment you recharge with enough balance, the system automatically clears what you owe.

4. No Response after Dialing

Once in a while, the USSD code (*303# or *312#) may refuse to load. This is usually a temporary network hiccup.

The fix: Try again later, or switch to the MyMTN NG app to get around the issue.

5. Can’t Borrow More Data

If you’ve already maxed out your borrowing limit, MTN won’t let you borrow again until you repay what you owe.

The fix: A quick recharge to clear your balance reopens the option.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Borrowing Data on MTN 

Are there borrowing limits on MTN XtraByte?

Yes, there are borrowing limits on MTN XtraByte. The smallest bundle you can borrow is usually 25MB, while the maximum can reach 1GB or more. Your exact limit depends on your recharge history and consistency. The more you recharge, the higher your limit grows.

Can I transfer borrowed data to another person?

No, you can’t transfer borrowed data to another person. Borrowed data is meant for the account that requested it. You can’t share or gift XtraByte bundles to another line.

Does borrowed data expire?

Yes. Borrowed bundles come with validity periods (e.g., 1 day, 2 days, or more depending on the plan). If you don’t use it up before expiry, the unused portion disappears, just like regular data bundles.

Can I borrow multiple times?

Yes, you can borrow multiple times, as long as you haven’t exceeded your borrowing limit.

What happens if I keep borrowing without recharging?

Your account will be blocked from further borrowing until you clear your debt. MTN won’t let you keep piling up unlimited loans.

Does borrowing data affect my recharge bonuses?

No, borrowing data does not affect your recharge bonuses. You will still get your normal bonuses when you recharge. Just remember MTN clears your borrowed data debt first, so your airtime balance (and bonuses) might look smaller than expected after repayment.

Can I cancel a borrowed data request?

No, you can’t cancel a request to borrow data once you confirm it. Once confirmed, the request via USSD, IVR, or the MyMTN app is processed instantly and cannot be reversed.

Conclusion

Running out of data doesn’t have to ruin your day. With MTN XtraByte, you always have a backup plan when data runs out at the worst time.

The best part? The more loyal and consistent you are with your recharges, the bigger your borrowing power grows. So, instead of panicking the next time your data bar hits zero, just dial the code, tap the app, or call MTN and get back online without missing a beat.

Borrow smart, repay promptly, and your MTN number will always have your back when you need it most.