Google Meet - Breakout Room Workaround

Google Workspace for Education Fundamentals does not include native breakout rooms. This guide explains how teachers can create a simple workaround using multiple Google Meet links and Microsoft Outlook to organize breakout sessions.

Step 1: Create Your Meet Links

In your Chrome browser, type meet.new into the address bar.
A new Google Meet opens — copy the link from the address bar. This is your main class/session link.
Repeat this step for each breakout room you need (Group A, Group B, Group C, etc.).
Copy and paste each link into a document or email so you have them ready.

Step 2: Share Links With Students

Paste all links into your Outlook meeting invite or a Google Doc/Schoology post.

Main Meeting

meet.google.com/abc-123-def

Group A

meet.google.com/ghi-456-jkl

Group B

meet.google.com/mno-789-pqr

Group C

meet.google.com/qrs-987-tuv

Step 3: During Class

Start in the main Meet link with all students.
When it’s time to split, direct students to leave the main Meet and join their assigned breakout link.
Keep the main Meet open so students know where to return.

Step 4: Monitor Breakouts

Open each breakout Meet in its own Chrome tab.
Mute yourself in the tabs you aren’t actively speaking in.
Jump between tabs to check progress and answer questions.

Step 5: Bring Everyone Back

Announce in each breakout room when time is up.
Students close their breakout Meet tab and return to the main Meet link.

Pro Tips

Prepare breakout links ahead of time and keep the same groups for consistency.
Use a timer on your screen so students know when to return.