How is IISER Kolkata in terms of academics, research and student life?

In terms of academics, research, and student life, IISER Kolkata is great. Reputed universities across the world such as Caltech, Cambridge, Oxford, Columbia, Cornell, UC, etc. have a few IISER Kolkata alumni in each batch. 

The institute has an active research culture. The institute publishes many cited research papers. IISER Kolkata hosts Vijyoshi. The aim of this camp is to provide a forum for aspiring researchers to interact and share ideas. 

The campus life offered is good. Although there had been some political problems in the past, the campus environment has improved a lot in recent years.

Overall IISER Kolkata is a decent institute. However, it is an ambiguous statement. Here are some specifics that you may find helpful. 

• If you are in your undergraduate and you are interested in pursuing research in basic sciences then IISER Kolkata can be a great place for you. In fact, it is even better than some of the IITs. 
• For Theoretical Physics, IISER Kolkata is a great option. However, for the experimental section, you can find better options. 
• If you are looking to do an integrated MS Ph.D. course, then IISER Kolkata will be a great option. 
• The institute has many good researchers and project supervisors, so you can find good research projects if you want to do a Ph.D.
• If you want to study basic sciences, but aren’t sure about the discipline, then IISER Kolkata is a good place to start. It will also be good for masters.

However, the campus is in a secluded place, which is a point of disadvantage. You can join the institute if you are interested to have a career in basic sciences.