Can I start school while prior loans are in default?

I went to an institutional school in 2006, realized that it wasn'tt for me and dropped out. I was young anddidn'tt take it seriously. Now that Im a little older, I want to seriously continue my education but my loans from my last school are in default. How do I get them out of default long enough to get myself enrolled? Ive already filled out my FAFSA and applied (and been accepted) to my choice college, but cant continue until these are out of default. Any advice is appreciated. I have not called about it yet, I was just wondering if anyone else has had experience with this. Thank you!