Choice will usually match your status with other programs. Unlike the Hilton and Marriott Status challenges, you're simply granted status—there is no need to stay a minimum number of times over 90 days to lock-in your status. As long as you apply after July, you'll have status for the rest of that year and the entire following year.
Status Match webpage.
Benefits are light. You're entitled to a free snack or beverage at US and Canadian hotels, the possibility of a minor room upgrade, and either 10% or 25% bonus points on stays (depending on whether you receive Gold or Platinum status). Like the other matches, you are only officially allowed to do this once per lifetime. Choice Status Benefits.
If you stay a single time at a Cambria hotel, your status match will bump you all the way to Choice's highest Diamond level status, with a better chance of a room upgrade. Without the Cambria stay, your status match will only qualify for the Gold or Platinum level.
You'll also get automatic Choice Gold status from the Choice Credit Card. But since it doesn't come with a free night certificate or a huge bonus, getting the card isn't a high priority.
