A filter element for filtering a fluid has a filter bellows arranged about the longitudinal axis of the filter element and enclosing an interior of the filter element. A first end disk open toward the interior is arranged at a first end of the filter element. A second closed end disk is arranged at a second end of the filter element. The second end is oppositely positioned to the first end in a direction of the longitudinal axis. The filter bellows has folds with radially outer fold edges positioned on an outer circumferential surface of the filter bellows. The filter bellows is provided with a notch at least at one of the first and second ends. The notch has an axial length in the direction of the longitudinal axis. The axial length is shorter than a length extension of the filter bellows in the direction of the longitudinal axis.