Upgrade time dilemma

[Hjalmarg1]

I'd pick for your budget either the 60D or the 7D Mark I, I'd take the latter. Both can be found used with low shutter at very good prices.
5D Mark II is an excellent camera but you need EF lenses (FF) and most of the APSC cameras comes with EF-S lenses that are not compatible with the 5D II.

 

[TheJock]

Another option is a used 6D with a couple of lenses, you should be able to source that marginaly over your budget (you did say you could double if pushed), the 6D may just be that push!!!

 

[FEBS]

Yes go FF. A used 5D2 or a 6D seems to me your best choice. As other also say, you will never look back again.

 

[kaswindell]

About 35 years ago I was going off to college with a Canon 50mm 1.8, 28mm 2.8, an a medicre Tamron 80-210 zoom that made me avoid zooms and 3rd party glass after that, along with an A-1. I have since changed my mind on zooms (as long as you buy high quality ones) but still can't bring myself to buy 3rd party glass. Go with one of the full frame options recommeded by others, if you wind up shooting for you college yearbook the bigger sensor's image quality vs. crop will serve you well. If you decide you like primes, I suggest a 24, 35, 50, 85, 135, 200 and 300 (for sports - I added a motor drive to the A-1 too but either the 6D or 5DII can go aboout as fast - 5fps (it is not 7D speed but it is enough) - you can build a kit you like over several years, you don't need it day 1. If you prefer zooms, get the best you can afford to over the same range. If you can afford stuff longer or wider than what I suggest by all means do, but don't buy junk glass and enjoy learning everything you can over the next few years!

Best wishes for your future