Security meanwhile remained tight at Shengda Economics, Trade and Management College, Henan, where students rioted last week over graduation diplomas.

The protests at Sichuan University's Jiangan campus broke out last week, with media reports saying up to 9,000 students took part, although an administrator said that was likely an exaggeration.

According to an article on news Web site Chinagate, Sichuan University students began protesting early on June 12, throwing beer bottles and basins out of windows and setting bicycles, computers and bedding on fire.

Dozens of security guards were despatched but refused to enter the dormitories.

The protests ended later that morning after appeals from teachers and counselors.

The administrator, who refused to give his name, said midnight power cuts were standard to ensure students got enough rest. But he said power would stay on overnight this week, ostensibly to allow students to better prepare for upcoming exams.

Thousands of students smashed offices and set fires at the Shengda college, claiming administrators broke promises to issue them degrees from more prestigious Zhengzhou University, with which the school is affiliated.

Students had previously reported details to the press of riots, which involved between 5,000 and 10,000 people, but they were more wary Wednesday, with many refusing to speak to the media.

Most had returned to classes Wednesday, leaving only a few to continue a boycott of classes and exams, teachers and students said. ASSOCIATED PRESS, AGENCE FRANCE-PRESSE