Chilean police and students face off in the latest clash over education reforms.

Police fired water cannon at demonstrators inside Santiago's Metropolitan University of Educational Sciences, who are demanding wide-ranging education reforms.

Some students responded by hurling rocks at the police officers who made several arrests.

Local reports said the violence erupted after about 70 high school students from the Nunoa neighbourhood marched through their district before entering the University.

Frustrated at the government's failure to deliver what they consider an adequate response to their demands, Chile's students have led regular protests calling for education reform for over a year.

Tuition costs in Chile are among the highest in the world and many are demanding free schooling for all.