Thousands of students have clashed with police in Chile during protests over President Sebastian Pinera's education policies.

Authorities used tear gas and water cannon Tuesday in Santiago to disperse the demonstrators, who are demanding education reform. Many students have complained about prohibitively expensive education and difficult university entrance requirements. They also say the system is not funded properly.

President Pinera announced cuts in the education budget earlier this year.

The president has called on students to reach a negotiated solution with the government based on 21 proposals he presented, but no agreement has been finalized.

The Chilean leader also faces sagging approval ratings, which have now fallen to about 26 percent.