Yes, U Chicago has just gone test optional, but I am very skeptical that a kid from, say, Scarsdale, without test scores will get the same consideration as a kid from the Bronx without test scores. IMO, there are some schools that have a long-established history of being test optional who truly do seem to be test optional. I would put Bates in that category.
@bklynkids , your son will have better options if he can be less picky:-)
Many kids learn early in the college search that being open to options outside their comfort zone gives them better choices. Compromise is a good thing.