Cambridge STEP requirements

I’ve seen many say that the usual bottom line for Cambridge maths is a grade of 1,1 but are there any exceptions? For example, can I at least get a chance to be shortlisted into the interview with an S,2? Should I just wait and retake STEP 3 next year or should I apply anyway this October? Also, which college should I apply to? Thx 🙏

You seem to have got things out of order. You apply first, and if you get an interview / offer, then you worry about STEP later. The usual offer condition is A*A*A in A levels + 1, 1 in STEP, although typically many people miss their STEP offer each year, so if Cambridge can't fill its places with candidates having 1, 1 or better then they can be flexible in admitting near misses or people with stuff like S, 2 or 2, S or even 1,2 if they think the candidate has potential.

I do know that that is usually the case, however I instead have already done step this June and am planning to apply this October. Im just wondering whether my grade will hinder my chances 😅

I don't think it will "hinder" your chances - and you don't actually know what your grade will be yet! - but this is one reason why it's not usually a good idea to sit STEP early - you may not do yourself justice because you won't have had the same preparation time as if you'd sat it at the "normal" time.