| Rewards | 3% cash back in one category of your choice (e.g., gas, dining, online shopping) on the first $2,500 in combined purchases each quarter. 2% cash back at grocery stores and wholesale clubs on the first $2,500 each quarter. 1% cash back on all other purchases |
|---|---|
| Signup Bonus | $200 cash rewards bonus after spending $1,000 in purchases within the first 90 days of account opening. |
| Annual Fee | $0 |
| Cardmember Agreement | View Here |
| Cash Advance APR | 21.24% – 29.24%, based on your creditworthiness, for Direct Deposit and Check Cash Advances, 25.49% for Bank Cash Advances (APR is subject to change) |
| Cash Advance Fee | Either $10 or 5% of the amount of each cash advance — whichever is greater. |
| Late Payment Fee | Up to $40 |
| Purchases APR | 17.49% – 27.49%, based on your creditworthiness (APR is subject to change) |
| * Card terms and offers are subject to change. Confirm current details with the issuer. | |
The Cal Alumni BankAmericard Cash Rewards Visa Credit Card stands out as a no-annual-fee cash-back card designed for Cal alumni, offering a tiered rewards structure that’s flexible for everyday spending. Most users say they like the $200 signup bonus after $1,000 in purchases, and many reviewers mentioned the ability to choose a 3% cash-back category each quarter as a major perk. The 2% back on grocery and wholesale club purchases also gets frequent praise, especially for families or anyone who shops regularly in these categories.
On the downside, users often complain that the tiered categories require tracking quarterly spending limits, which can be a hassle if you don’t plan ahead. Many reviewers also noted that the APR can be high, especially for those who carry a balance, and that rewards are capped in certain categories. Some alumni felt that the card doesn’t offer anything unique beyond the standard Bank of America Customized Cash Rewards card, aside from the Cal branding.
Personally, I think this card is best for Cal alumni who want a straightforward, no-fee cash-back card and don’t mind managing categories quarterly. If you’re looking for high ongoing rewards on travel or flexible cash-back across all purchases, there are better general-use cards out there.
I love supporting my alma mater, but the 3% and 2% cash back categories hit a $2,500 quarterly cap, and the APR shoots up fast. Not ideal for big spenders.