Step 1: Understanding QCBS.
The Quality and Cost-Based Selection (QCBS) method is a standard approach for procuring consultancy and professional services. It differs from a lowest bid (L1) system by evaluating both the technical merit (technical score) and the financial proposal (financial score).
Step 2: Analyze each option.
- (A) Incorrect → In QCBS, the technical proposal is evaluated before the financial proposal. Only bidders meeting the technical qualification threshold are considered for financial evaluation. ✗
- (B) Correct → The Earnest Money Deposit (EMD) is submitted with the bid documents prior to the opening of technical bids to confirm bidder commitment. ✓
- (C) Incorrect → The award in QCBS is not automatically given to the lowest financial bid. It is based on a combined score of technical and financial evaluations. ✗
- (D) Correct → A weighted scoring system is employed, typically with technical and financial scores weighted at ratios such as 70:30 or 80:20. ✓
Step 3: Conclusion.
Therefore, the correct statements are (B) and (D).
Final Answer: \[\boxed{\text{(B) and (D)}}\]