---
title: "Semi-Presidential System — AP Comp Gov Definition & Exam Guide"
description: "A semi-presidential system splits executive power between an elected president and a prime minister. Russia is the AP Comp Gov example you need for Unit 2."
canonical: "https://fiveable.me/ap-comp-gov/key-terms/semi-presidential-system"
type: "key-term"
subject: "AP Comparative Government"
---

# Semi-Presidential System — AP Comp Gov Definition & Exam Guide

## Definition

A semi-presidential system combines elements of both parliamentary and presidential systems. It features an elected president as head of state alongside a prime minister who is responsible for the day-to-day governance.

## Related Study Guides

- [Unit 1 Overview: Political Systems, Regimes, and Governments](/ap-comp-gov/unit-1/review/study-guide/3BVr8P5qDS5IEQAcp86R)
- [2.2 Comparing Parliamentary, Presidential, and Semi-Presidential Systems](/ap-comp-gov/unit-2/comparing-parliamentary-presidential-semi-presidential-systems/study-guide/bBDA5h4hol0IbkJWhVor)
- [2.3 Executive Systems](/ap-comp-gov/unit-2/executive-systems/study-guide/dDQcnwREgI0YRpscsZsY)
- [2.1 Parliamentary, Presidential, and Semi-Presidential Systems](/ap-comp-gov/unit-2/parliamentary-presidential-semi-presidential-systems/study-guide/lHawA1movmFiqMkf2WJ0)
- [Unit 2 Overview: Political Institutions](/ap-comp-gov/unit-2/review/study-guide/mcJR5lYbU8udDMOl6xdh)

## Review

### Related Terms

- Dual Executive: The presence of both a president and a prime minister, each with their own powers and responsibilities.
- Cohabitation: A situation in a semi-presidential system where the president and prime minister belong to different political parties, leading to potential conflicts and challenges in governance.
- [Constitutional Court](/ap-comp-gov/key-terms/constitutional-court): A judicial body that interprets the constitution and resolves disputes related to constitutional matters in a semi-presidential system.