shall award grants under such section, on a competitive basis, to those States that have demonstrated the greatest progress in establishing and committing to maintain a system of high-quality State early learning programs, on a competitive basis, based on the State's commitment to meeting and developing, as necessary, the components described in subsection (c)(4). (e) State uses of funds A State receiving a grant under section 3(a) shall use the grant funds for activities that implement or improve the system components described in subsection (c)(4) and help State early learning programs meet and sustain higher levels of program quality standards and move more low-income children into higher quality programs, consistent with the plan submitted in accordance with subsection (c). (f) Funds To expand access A State may apply to the Secretary to reserve not more than 25 percent of the amount of the grant to expand access for children from low-income families, proportional to the disparities by age group identified in subsection (c)(8), to the highest quality State early learning programs that offer full-day, full-year services. 5. Development grants (a) State applications In order to receive a grant under section 3(b), a State shall submit an application to the Secretary at such time, in such manner, and containing such information as the Secretary shall require, including a description of how the State will develop a plan consistent with section 4(c). (b) Grant period Grants under section 3(b)— (1) may be awarded for a period of not to exceed 3 years